The staffing expansion comes as RSC offices prepare to take on extra work with the government’s proposals to academise coasting schools, as well as schools in council areas deemed underperforming or unviable.

Some in the sector have expressed concerns the new directors will essentially be deputy RSCs.

However when asked this by Schools Week, the DfE said: “These positions are not deputy RSCs, they are specific civil service grades and do not have the decision-making powers specific to RSCs.

“Deputy directors will complement the senior leadership teams in each RSC’s office, helping to deliver the expansion of the academies programme and recruit strong sponsors.”

Their duties, according to the job advert, include monitoring performance and intervening in underperforming academies, managing academy trusts, sponsors and local authorities, and providing strategic advice to RSCs and ministers.